During a recent government meeting, concerns were raised regarding urban development in Spokane Valley and its impact on established neighborhoods. A resident expressed frustration over the rapid growth in the area, noting that while the valley has transitioned from agricultural land to urban density, the existing neighborhoods have remained largely unaffected due to their larger lot sizes, typically exceeding 5,000 square feet.

The resident highlighted the lack of sidewalks and curbs in their neighborhood, which has allowed children to play in the streets, but also raised safety concerns due to increased traffic from new developments. They contrasted their experience of riding a tricycle in less densely populated areas with the discomfort of navigating busier streets like Cowley and Long, where space is limited.

The resident called for a comprehensive study to assess the potential consequences of converting all remaining open spaces in the area into urban developments. They pointed out that while some new projects meet regulatory requirements, the cumulative effect of multiple high-density units could overwhelm the infrastructure and alter the character of the community.

This discussion underscores the ongoing tension between urban growth and the preservation of established neighborhoods, raising questions about future planning and development strategies in Spokane Valley.